Presidential Listening Tour 2012

In the short time leading up to and since I took office as president, I acquired a great deal of the knowledge and made the relationships necessary to successfully lead James Madison University. But still there is much for me to learn. I must acquire a complete 360-degree understanding of the university's strengths as well as its challenges and a deeper understanding of what makes Madison unique.

So, I plan to embark on a listening tour to meet as many of you as I can. Just as I have been asked why I came to Madison, I plan to ask you "Why Madison?" Why did you choose to attend, teach or work at JMU? Why is Madison important to you? Why are you committed to JMU? Why do you volunteer your time or invest your resources in the university? Why is Madison uniquely suited to address the most pressing challenges of our society and our world? Why Madison?

I want our conversation to be one of mutual discovery. It will be intellectually invigorating, open and frank. I also expect that it will be enjoyable and rewarding. Over time, the themes that emerge from your answers to "Why Madison?" will inform the university’s next strategic planning process. So please reflect deeply on my question, "Why Madison?" I hope to hear your answer soon when the listening tour makes a stop near you.